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8-year-old Lando Norris from Glastonbury is set to become a 'world champion' F1 racing driver. Credit: Lando Norris

A Somerset teenager is set to become the youngest Formula 1 driver in British history after being promoted ahead of the 2019 season.

McLaren chief executive says 18-year-old Lando Norris 'is a future world champion' but the team must 'mature him into the sport the right way'.

The Somerset teenager could become the youngest F1 driver in British history. Credit: ITV West Country

Glastonbury's Lando Norris was signed by McLaren in 2017 after success in the junior categories and Formula Three championship.

He was then promoted to F1 reserve driver with the British team.

Norris follows in the footsteps of Lewis Hamilton, who was just 22 when he hit the spotlight with McLaren in 2007.

CEO Zak Brown is conscious to avoid these comparisons though, saying it 'might put too much pressure on him too quickly.'

Norris joined McLaren in 2017 as a reserve driver and has since impressed chief executive, Zak Brown. Credit: PA Images

Speaking of his promotion, Norris said: "To be announced as a race driver for McLaren is a dream come true. Although I've been part of the McLaren team for a while now, this is a special moment and one I could only hope would become reality."

"For the remainder of 2018, my focus remains firmly on the Formula Two
championship. My objective is to win the title before joining McLaren full-time, which will be tough but I will fight as hard as I can for the remaining four races."

– Lando Norris

The 18-year-old will replace Stoffel Vandoorne, who will be leaving McLaren at the end of the year.